Penguins Contract Extension (Approved 4-0)

[Penguins GM]

The Pittsburgh Penguins would like to extend James Neal (PIT - LW)

James Neal has been spectacular for the penguins this season and has earned his raise. Being a by product of Evgeni Malkin has his value dropped a little bit because last year without Malkin, Neal was only able to score 1 goal for the penguins in the regular season.

The Penguins would like to offer James Neal 5.25 Million over the course of the next 4 seasons. It is a 2.5 million dollar raise over his current salary.

Other comparables include:

Jamie Benn (156) (RFA) likely 5.5
Joffrey Lupul (172.2) (4.2 million)
Matt Moulson (157.3) (3.2 million) Just extended
Kris Versteeg (153.5) (3.1 million) (RFA)

The only reason that the penguins feel Neal should get paid less then Benn is the dependency factor. Neal is dependent on another star offensive player where Benn can create his own offense.

[devilsgm]

I wouldn't say that Neal is "dependent" on another star, but he is more productive with one. He was really good with both Malkin and Crosby out earlier this season.

But I'll approve (1-0)

[Penguins GM]

James Neal last season for the penguins 1 goal 5 assists , playoffs 1 g 1a (20 games + 7 playoff games) - No Malkin or Crosby

This season 50GP - 27G 21A - 48 points - Playing with Malkin and Crosby (8 Games)

I think it is fair to assume that he is dependent on other star players. He had 39 points in 59 games for the stars before coming to pittsburgh where he played with Benn or Eriksson and Ribeiro.

[sensgm]

seems about right approved 2-0

[rock30 (Leafs GM)]

Approved 3-0

[19canuck90]

Looks good for sure. Approved 4-0